I use ajuga, however it does spread. It's lower than lawn and you can mow right over it if it gets weedy. It takes light foot traffic and grows below my post oaks just north of Fort Worth.

Mulch would keep the muddy paws down also.

Is there a specific kind of mulch (bark vs shredded) people put down for areas like this? I've been using texas native hardwood mulch for my beds. There will be a lot of acorns and leaves in the fall if that makes a difference. Ajuga is looking appealing as well but I worry about the spreading and critters living it in.

Any alternative would be preferable to replanting St. Augustinegrass. Turf grass cannot survive near the trunk of a shade tree, not because of the shade, but because it cannot compete with the tree's feeder roots.

Under normal circumstances, a landscaper would suggest a groundcover such as Asian jasmine (evergreen/exotic) or horseherb (native/deciduous) that would thrive unfazed by the feeder roots. However, if your pooch insists on taking mud baths, a groundcover may never have the chance to become established, in which case shredded bark mulch may be the best option. Hardwood and cedar are both excellent; your choice is a matter of personal preference. Cypress would also work, but it is lighter and does not provide the soil with as many nutrients when it breaks down. Pine bark mulch floats, so don't use it unless you don't mind reapplying it after every heavy rain.

Sometimes, the best thing to do is mulch the whole large area. Place three large, potted plants underneath. I would buy three matching pots and plant the same plant in each for a harmonious look.

One suggestion is bird's nest fern - they get very large and love living under the shade of oaks. I particularly like Asplenium nidus ‘Victoria’ which is the one in the photos below. Whatever you decide, post back and show us the "after"! Good luck!

Carol in Jacksonville

I have planted liriope (monkey grass) under large trees and it did well. My lab loved to lay right in the middle of it. When the leaves fell, it was easy enough to rake, and then just cut with a lawnmower in early spring before new growth starts.

Holly ferns are evergreen here in N. TX and can get quite large, I don't think that Birds nest fern is hardy here. Liriope and Mondo grass are good ground covers that are also evergreen.

White oaks are deciduous so you do not have a canopy for protection in winter. So right, the bird's nest fern is out unless you want to cover and protect. (It's not hardy here, either, but my live oak canopy gives it protection and a higher zone allowance in winter. I just toss an old towel over it on really cold nights.)

Be very careful and know which liriope you want and purchase: there is Liriope muscari (clumping) and Liriope spicata (rapidly spreading via underground rhizomes).

Good luck!

Carol

I have an even bigger muddy area under a live oak on the opposite side of the house. That's where I'll be doing ferns and other ground cover, after I tackle this first side. Dog can't get there though, so it's less pressing :) Thanks for even more info!

Molly, very pretty area! What does the plaque read? I can make out 'old roses' but my eyes just can't see the rest.

"The Vintage Rosery - old roses make good scents". This came from the old Vintage Rosery nursery in Needville, Tx that closed a few years ago.

Molly

Gorgeous, inviting seating area, Molly!

"Rosery", not to be confused with "rosary".

Carol in Jacksonville

I love that!